Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with Game Safari in Tanzania
Embark on a journey to discover two distinct faces of East Africa. Begin with the lush, forested mountains of Uganda, home to the majestic mountain gorillas. Then, venture southeast to Tanzania’s sprawling savannahs, teeming with diverse wildlife. This combination of experiences offers some of the world’s most unforgettable wildlife encounters. Gorilla trekking in Uganda allows you to connect with primates in their natural habitat, while a game safari in Tanzania unveils iconic African landscapes and extraordinary animal species. Let’s explore what each destination has to offer.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Trekking Destinations: Bwindi and Mgahinga
Uganda’s gorilla trekking adventures take place in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi shelters over half of the world’s mountain gorillas, spread across four main sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Rushaga also offers a unique gorilla habituation experience, giving visitors extended time with gorilla families.
In contrast, Mgahinga hosts a single gorilla family, Nyakagezi, within its bamboo-dominated volcanic forests. Trekking here is less challenging compared to Bwindi’s dense jungle. However, the experience remains equally rewarding, offering close encounters with these gentle giants.
Start of the Trek
Your adventure begins early, reporting to the park headquarters at 6:30 a.m. for a detailed briefing. At exactly 7:00 a.m., guides provide information on trekking rules to ensure safety and enjoyment. Treks vary in duration, depending on the gorillas’ location, but the reward is unparalleled.
Gorilla Trekking Permits
Uganda’s gorilla trekking permits are available through Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or tour operators like Iconic Africa Safaris. Permits cost $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. African nationals outside the East African Community pay $500.
Game Safari in Tanzania
Lake Manyara National Park
After trekking gorillas in Uganda, fly southeast to Tanzania for a game safari. Begin at Lake Manyara National Park, famous for tree-climbing lions and a rich birdlife. The park’s diverse habitats also support elephants, giraffes, and hippos, making it a perfect introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife.
The Karatu Highlands and Ngorongoro Crater
In the late afternoon, ascend to the Karatu Highlands and settle into a lodge surrounded by stunning views. The following day, descend to the Ngorongoro Crater floor for a full day of exploration. Known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the crater hosts a dense population of wildlife, including the Big Five. After enjoying a picnic lunch, return to the crater rim for breathtaking views.
Serengeti Plains
From Ngorongoro, fly to the northern Serengeti plains and check into your safari camp. The Serengeti’s vast landscapes are home to incredible wildlife, including cheetahs, lions, and large herds of wildebeest and zebras. Experience morning and afternoon game drives, each offering a unique perspective on the ecosystem.
Enhance your stay in the Serengeti with a walking safari and a night game drive. Walking safaris offer an intimate connection with nature, while night drives reveal the park’s nocturnal inhabitants. Both activities add depth to your Tanzanian adventure.
Uganda & Tanzania Safari Itinerary
This 13-day safari takes you through Uganda and Tanzania, offering unique wildlife experiences. From gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to game drives in Serengeti and Ngorongoro, the itinerary provides a rich and unforgettable journey. Here’s an overview of the trip.
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport
Your adventure begins upon arrival at Entebbe Airport, Uganda. You’ll be met by a representative and transferred to your accommodation. After settling in, you may opt to explore Entebbe. Visit the Mabamba Swamp for birdwatching, especially to spot the rare Shoebill Stork. Alternatively, explore the Entebbe Botanical Gardens or visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) for a look at local wildlife.
Overnight: Karibu Entebbe (1 night)
Day 2: Journey to Lake Mutanda & Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Start your day with breakfast, then transfer back to Entebbe Airport. Take a light aircraft flight to Kihihi, the gateway to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Upon arrival, a representative will transfer you to your lodge for check-in. Afterward, embark on a relaxing 2-hour canoe ride on Lake Mutanda. The surrounding landscape is stunning, with views of the misty hills and lush forest.
Overnight: Mutanda Lake Resort (4 nights)
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
This day is dedicated to the highlight of your trip: gorilla trekking. Start early with a briefing at the park headquarters. Here, you will meet your experienced guides and trackers who will lead you deep into the forest. Once you locate your allocated gorilla family, you will spend one hour observing these magnificent creatures. After the trek, return to the lodge to relax and reflect on your unforgettable encounter.
Day 4: Leisure at Lake Mutanda
Today is a free day for you to enjoy at Mutanda Lake Resort. You can relax and take in the tranquil surroundings. Alternatively, take a walk along the lake or visit nearby villages to learn more about local life. This is a great opportunity to rest and recharge after your trek.
Day 5: Second Gorilla Trekking Experience
On day five, prepare for your second gorilla trek. You’ll head back to the park headquarters for a briefing. A different gorilla family will be assigned to you for a fresh experience. Venture into the forest and spend one hour with the gorillas. This trek offers a unique perspective as you observe their social behaviors and interactions. Return to your lodge afterward for a leisurely afternoon.
Day 6-7: Return to Entebbe
After breakfast on day six, you’ll transfer to the airstrip and board a return light aircraft flight to Entebbe. Once in Entebbe, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. You may choose to visit Mabamba Swamp for birdwatching or explore more of the area. You will overnight at Karibu Entebbe before your next journey.
Overnight: Karibu Entebbe (1 night)
Day 8-10: Fly to Tanzania & Explore Lake Manyara National Park
On day eight, take your own flight arrangements to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Upon arrival, a representative will transfer you to your lodge. Take time to settle in after your flights.
Overnight: Arumeru River Lodge (1 night)
On day nine, after breakfast, depart for Lake Manyara National Park. Here, you will experience a day of exciting game viewing. The park is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and flamingos. In the late afternoon, you will drive up the escarpment to the Karatu Highlands, where your lodge awaits.
Overnight: Bashay Rift Lodge (2 nights)
Day 9: Ngorongoro Crater Game Drive
Day nine brings an exciting adventure to the Ngorongoro Crater, one of the world’s most famous wildlife destinations. After breakfast, head to the crater floor for a thrilling game drive. The crater is home to a wealth of wildlife, including the endangered black rhino, lions, and wildebeests. A picnic lunch will be provided in this stunning setting. In the afternoon, you’ll drive back to the crater rim and return to your lodge.
Day 10-13: Serengeti National Park Safari
On day ten, enjoy a morning transfer to the airstrip and board a light aircraft to Serengeti National Park. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your camp in the northern Serengeti plains. After settling in, you will head out for an exciting afternoon game drive. The Serengeti is famous for its vast savannas, wildlife, and the Great Migration.
Overnight: Grumeti Hills (3 nights)
Days eleven and twelve are devoted to game drives in the Serengeti. You will embark on morning and afternoon game drives to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems. The Serengeti is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, elephants, and cheetahs. You will also enjoy a walking safari with a guide and a night game drive to experience the park in a completely different light.
Day 13: Return Home
On your final day, you’ll have an early breakfast and transfer to the airstrip for a light aircraft flight back to Arusha. Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a local lodge before your transfer to Kilimanjaro International Airport. Please ensure that your flight departs after 5 p.m. to allow enough time for your transfer and lunch. With a heart full of memories, you will leave Africa, taking with you incredible photos and experiences from your safari adventure.
